The Decline of Feudalism and the Rise of the Modern State

Summary: Essay discusses the events, between 1300 and 1500, that caused the decline of feudalism and the creation of the modern state. The crusades, ecclesiastical divisions, and the raise of the nation state are all discussed.

The decline of feudalism and the creation of the modern state were an outcome to several specific events. These events occurred between 1300 and 1500 and included a variety of circumstances. The collapse of feudalism and the formation of the modern state were due to three key factors: the crusades, ecclesiastical divisions, and the raise of the nation state.

The crusades were a vital affair in resituating the ancient ideals of learning and trade. The base conflict between the popes and Muslims were the start of the crusades, however, the full emergence of the crusaders into Muslim culture rekindled economical and intellectual development of the Holy Roman Empire. The Muslims, being far more advanced than the crusaders, offered a wide array of knowledge and science that revived learning and new ideas. The contact with the Muslims opened up trade routes, which brought demand for builders and sailors, and moreover, transported...